These Easy and Cheesy Garlic Knots are a warm, gooey treat perfect for any gathering. They’re made with simple dough, lots of garlic, and plenty of cheese to make your taste buds dance!
Trust me, once you smell that buttery garlic goodness baking, you won’t be able to resist sneaking one (or three!). I love serving them fresh from the oven with a side of marinara for dipping. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: Refrigerated pizza dough is super convenient! If you want a homemade touch, you can use your favorite recipe. For gluten-free options, look for pre-made gluten-free pizza dough.
Cheese: Mozzarella is delightful for its stretchy texture. If you want a bit more flavor, try using provolone or even a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness of the dish. If you’re dairy-free, you can use vegan butter or olive oil for brushing.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. In a pinch, minced garlic from a jar will work too, but the taste varies. Roasted garlic can also add a sweet, rich flavor.
How Do You Get the Garlic Knots to Stay Soft and Chewy?
The key is to not over-bake the knots. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and keep an eye on them. When they turn golden brown, they’re ready!
- Brush them with garlic butter right after they come out of the oven for extra moisture.
- Layering cheese inside ensures that they melt perfectly, keeping that chewy texture.
Easy and Cheesy Garlic Knots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small sticks or cubes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: marinara sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 15 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches. This will make it easier to cut the dough into strips.
3. Cut the Strips:
Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into strips that are about 1 inch wide and 4-5 inches long. This size is perfect for tying into knots!
4. Add the Cheese:
Take a small piece of mozzarella cheese and place it at one end of each strip. Carefully roll the dough around the cheese, then knot it by twisting and folding the ends together, ensuring the cheese is fully sealed inside.
5. Arrange the Knots:
Place the cheese-stuffed knots onto the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space between each one so they have room to grow.
6. Bake the Knots:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the knots are golden brown and fully cooked. The smell will be irresistible!
7. Mix the Garlic Butter:
While your knots are baking, prepare a delicious garlic butter mixture. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
8. Brush with Garlic Butter:
Once your garlic knots are done baking, take them out of the oven and brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture while they’re still hot. This will give them a wonderful flavor!
9. Add the Parmesan:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot knots, letting it melt slightly into the warm dough.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, cheesy garlic knots immediately! For extra enjoyment, pair them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. These delightful bites are sure to be a hit!
Enjoy these warm, cheesy garlic knots fresh from the oven—crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside with a fragrant garlic butter glaze!
Can I Use Homemade Pizza Dough Instead of Store-Bought?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough can give you a fresh, personalized touch. Follow the same instructions for shaping the knots, and bake as directed for a delicious result.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Parsley?
No worries! You can use dried parsley instead. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for 2 tablespoons of fresh, but add it to the butter mixture to allow the flavors to bloom!
How Should I Store Leftover Garlic Knots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to warm them without losing their texture.
Can I Freeze Garlic Knots for Later?
Yes! After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months—just reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy!
